David James is a retired academic, Emeritus Professor of Fetomaternal Medicine at the University of Nottingham — and now, a long-distance cycling enthusiast with a cause. David recently tackled the 273-mile Avenue Verte from London to Paris to raise funds for Combat Stress, a charity supporting veterans with PTSD.
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Life in Stages: From Lecture Halls to Lycra
Born and raised in Cornwall, David’s journey took him from there to a medical career in Cambridge, London, Manchester, Bristol and, finally, Nottingham. He eventually settled on the specialty of maternal and fetal medicine. Retirement, however, has opened up a new frontier, namely the open road.
“Retirement is not about slowing down,” David says. “It’s about choosing your own route — after checking with your wife, of course.”
His passion? Long-distance cycling. Since retiring, he’s completed 16 rides, pedalling over 3,000 miles and raising more than £25,000 for eight charities. Even two neurosurgical operations in 2019/20 — which left him with reduced power in one leg — haven’t stopped him.
The Mission: London to Paris — By Pedal Power
The Avenue Verte is no ordinary bike ride. Stretching 273 miles from the London Eye to Notre Dame Cathedral, it winds through scenic countryside, converted railway paths, and bustling cities. David chose to time his ride to coincide with the 80th Anniversary of VE Day — a poignant moment for a cause close to his heart. And it was on a non-electric bike!
One sentence summaries:
- For England: “Glorious sunny and warm weather, miraculously”,
- For France: “Cheese, châteaux, and former railway lines, covered with tarmac like an ordinary road”.
England: Cycle tracks, Parks, Pedals, and Politeness (or Lack Thereof)
The adventure began at the London Eye, skirting along the Thames and through London’s urban maze. Sunday sunshine brought out cyclists, dog walkers, and the occasional grumpy pedestrian — not everyone appreciated David’s cheerful “Good morning!”
A highlight was the Wandle Trail, a peaceful green corridor following a once-industrial river. After the urban sprawl, crossing the M25 felt like breaking free. He rested in Horley and continued through East Grinstead, Mayfield, and finally over the “South Ups and Downs” to Newhaven, via the charming Cuckoo Trail.
- Best view? The Long Man of Wilmington etched into the hillside.
- Biggest challenge? The South Downs.
- Most symbolic moment? Crossing the M25 leaving London, behind.
France: Postcards, Pastries, and Paris
From Dieppe, the route snakes through Normandy’s picture-perfect countryside: charming villages, smooth cycleways, and scenes straight out of a storybook.
- Neufchâtel-en-Bray (yes, the cheese) offered both history and hospitality.
- Gournay-en-Bray and Forges-les-Eaux boasted restored villas and art deco delights.
- St-Germer-de-Fly and Gisors impressed with abbeys and medieval strongholds.
- The Epte Valley Greenway offered serenity before plunging into the Vexin’s rolling farmland.
The approach to Paris was a blend of modern infrastructure and timeless charm. Upgraded cycle routes (thanks, Olympics!) led through forests, suburbs, and alongside the River Seine.
- The most impressive chateau? Château de Mesnières-en-Bray nestled in rural tranquillity.
- The most chaotic moment? A bomb scare at Notre Dame ten minutes after arrival. (Yes, really).
A Journey with Meaning
Despite the challenges — aging joints, dodgy signage, serious climbs — David reached Notre Dame, mission accomplished. Not just a physical journey, but a deeply personal one, rooted in purpose.
Combat Stress made a difference in David’s own family. This ride was a way to give back — and to remind us all that retirement can be just the beginning of another remarkable chapter.
“The ride may be over, but the cause goes on.”
David James
Emeritus Professor of Fetomaternal Medicine, University of Nottingham
